We're going to turn now to our series bringing America back -- the most well known proceed as a part time Erin Brockovich her fight against a California utility became a blockbuster movie. But we were stunned to learn where that flight stands fifteen years later. -- tonight Nightline co -- sentiment that. Meet the real Erin Brockovich. Bold and brassy -- more than enough staff to play herself in the movie name for her. -- -- -- and don't use big words you don't understand instead Julia Roberts at the park and the Oscar. Classic -- hits that -- we first met Brockovich fifteen years ago when we were -- about what was going on and Hinckley California. In those days Brockovich was the file clerk of the law firm who found herself piecing together the stories of residents who were sick and scared. -- -- -- -- it ended up helping them make its case against the giant utility Pacific gas and electric. Who they claim could poison their water supply with chemicals Californian now recognizes as a carcinogen. Chromium six. And covered. For decades. A few weeks after -- story aired keen to any settled with the Hinckley residents. For 333. Million dollars the largest such direct action lawsuit in history. Although PG and he never acknowledged making anyone sick. The movie became a hit but ironically the place that occupies much of Brockovich is -- these days is the one that -- fame Hinckley. Well we don't act I don't -- to -- that Qwest. Field was shocked to discover all of these years later painfully never got it. In fact the area of the contamination has grown according to the local water board. No no one and Hinckley is drinking water that doesn't -- the state water quality standard but we certainly have an environmental. -- -- water cleanup issues to deal with why repeatedly just -- -- and clean -- -- What I I understand that people -- question was taken so Long Island I'd frankly I'd like to see things moving more quickly myself we've been able recently to submit a proposal with a solution. But Brockovich and many in Hinckley promises by. And a long time in the making. Cynthia McFadden ABC news in California.

This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.

Now Playing: Deadly terror attack on streets of Barcelona

Now Playing: Two people in custody in connection with Barcelona attack

Now Playing: Trump rails against the removal of 'beautiful statues'

Now Playing: Millions of people on severe weather alerts from Michigan to Pennsylvania